TEHRAN (Ruptly) – The Iranian and Russian naval forces kicked off a joint naval drill in the northern part of the Indian Ocean, Tuesday.

According to reports, the drill is being held in the area of 17,000 km² and is dubbed Iran-Russia Maritime Security Belt 2021.

Ships, including a Russian Navy ship 545 and an Iranian Hengam-class landing 514 ship were seen manoeuvring in the area.